Philippine Ambassador: Talks underway on direct flights and visa issues with Azerbaijan

Negotiations are underway between the Philippines and Azerbaijan regarding direct flights and visa issues, Philippine Ambassador to Azerbaijan, resident in Ankara, Henry Bensurto, told Report's Turkish bureau.

According to him, the main challenge is the considerable distance between the two countries, which can be addressed through quality air services.

"We can consider organizing direct flights or improving air connectivity to promote tourism between our countries. This is a matter we constantly discuss at the official level. In fact, both sides are interested in it. Another practical issue is the visa regime, on which negotiations between Azerbaijan and the Philippines are also ongoing," the ambassador said.

Bensurto noted that mutual visa requirements could be simplified through intergovernmental negotiations.

"We are at the stage of reaching an agreement to waive visa requirements for diplomats. This is the first step, after which a visa-free regime for citizens can be applied. I continue working on finding solutions, studying processes, and facilitating their implementation for cooperation in this and other areas," the diplomat added.

He also expressed his intention to hold his next presentation in Azerbaijan, titled "Visit the Philippines at Christmas."

"The mysterious islands of the Philippines await tourists. We regularly promote tourism. The number of trips between Azerbaijan and the Philippines is growing every day. Azerbaijan maintains close ties with many countries around the world. In this regard, it is very important for us that Azerbaijani tourists visit our country. Of course, the media play an undeniable role in this, and we thank you for that. I believe such visits will help our peoples get to know each other better, and after warm relations are established, distances will no longer matter," the ambassador said.